Freeport East and Transport East launch ambitious Transport Masterplan to drive growth and connectivity
Freeport East, in partnership with Transport East, has launched its Transport Masterplan. Using its extensive evidence-based insight, Transport East was commissioned to support the Freeport in identifying the key transport enhancements required to drive inward investment, create higher-paying jobs, and encourage sustainable growth.
The report is available here, on Freeport East’s website.
The plan identifies 14 priorities that will improve world-class links, unlocking up to £5.5bn GVA and over 10,000 new jobs, while increasing access to employment, education and green space for local communities.
The programme spans rail, road and local transport innovation. Key rail upgrades include:
- Ely and Haughley junction improvements,
- electrification of the Ipswich line to the Port of Felixstowe,
- better passenger services on the Colchester–Clacton and Ipswich–Cambridge routes.
On the roads, investment in the following major schemes can support growth and decarbonisation:
- A120 corridor (Harwich to Stansted)
- Orwell Crossing near Ipswich
- A14 Copdock Interchange
Alongside this, enhanced local connections include links between Felixstowe, Harwich and Shotley, plus improved options for active travel to ensure communities fully benefit from opportunities at the Freeport.
Andrew Summers, Chief Executive at Transport East, said “We are pleased to work with Freeport East to support the development of this ambitious transport masterplan, which clearly demonstrates the power of partnership in unlocking the East’s full potential to drive national growth.
“The East contributes £94 billion in GVA and supports 1.7 million jobs, making it one of the UK’s fastest growing and most productive regions. This masterplan reflects Transport East’s strategic priorities, aligning investment with the region’s strengths to supply, power and feed the nation, while making a compelling case for the enhanced transport infrastructure needed for the Freeport to realise its full benefits.
“We look forward to continuing our close collaboration with Freeport East to deliver our shared ambitions and ensure the East not only succeeds but thrives in the years ahead.”